Beginning at the turn of the century, millions moved 'up north' in search of financial and social "freedom". The PBS Documentary film (and notes) provide a good overview of this mass movement as seen from the migrants' perspective. ¹

¹ King & Associates, George. "Reflections on the Meaning of the Great Migration." Goin' To Chicago. PBS Documentary Film / Notes. 10 Aug. 2005 [http://www.pbs.org/gointochicago/].